Is there a medical condition that could cause a magnesium deficiency?

Question

I suspect it's just that I don't eat a varied diet, and I've been on a low calorie regimen for years.

Answer 1

Research has shown that 80% of all Americans do not get a sufficient amount of magnesium in their diet. Processing food removes magnesium from its usual sources, and even softening water decreases the magnesium in our diets. Certain diseases like alcoholism, kidney malfunction, chronic diarrhea, and arteriosclerosis can affect magnesium levels in an adverse way. Some prescription hormones like hormone replacement therapy or birth-control pills can upset metabolism and cause a deficiency.

Hope this is helpful and feel free to contact me with questions.

Answer 2

http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/002423.htm

There are medical conditions that cause clinical levels of magnesium deficiency, but they're rare. Generally it's just a dietary issue in the American diet and the link above will show you what you can add to your diet to help increase your dietary magnesium intake.

It is important to keep enough magnesium in your diet, even if it means taking a multivitamin each day, because low magnesium can increase your risk for certain cardiac issues and muscle and nerve discomfort along with some kidney problems. Try to avoid supplements because they can contain more magnesium than your body can use or safely excrete and it just doesn't absorb as readily as magnesium from food.

Answer 3

I think it is something like scervy . Do like your hero did eat fruit !